The Great Day began for many people with the United Service of prayer and thanksgiving in Holy Trinity Church.

Television revealed, as has never been possible before, the deeply religious significance of the Coronation Service, and none could fail to be impressed by our gracious young Queen’s beauty and dignity through the long hours of her consecration to the service of God and her people.
Despite strong wind, a crowd of happy children gathered in the Cricket Field for sports after lunch and later assembled in the gaily decorated Kingsley Hall for a truly royal feast of good things. Souvenir mugs were distributed, and the special broadsheets were presented to each child on leaving, together with a stick of rock, the latter being given by the Committee and Mr W Powell.
The gala social attracted a joyous crowd, and all joined in modern and old time dances, games and competitions, under the able leadership of Mr A Kelly, who acted as MC. A radio set having been kindly loaned by Mr A Kelly, those present were able to listen to the Queen’s broadcast. It was hoped that many people would come in fancy dress but only one youngster, Miss Ann Pooley, responded.
During the evening, the names of prize winners in the house and shop decoration competition were announced. This competition was judged by Mr Vernon Boyle and Mr J Keene, and the results were: Bobbie’s Wool Shop; Empire Stores and Mr Taylor’s hairdressing establishment; Mr M Tarrant, 14 Eastbourne Terrace; The Chalet.
Another feast of good things was served at 10pm. The Coronation cake, won in a competition by Mr Godfrey, 9 Westbourne Terrace, was cut. In a speech, Mr Wickham thanked all who had helped with the organisation, and then Miss Thelma Twose presented a spray of flowers to Mrs Hambly, head of the Catering Committee.
The full Gazette article is dated 5 June 1953.